The purposes of the vegetation management guidelines contained in this manual are to: enhance the safety of the traveling public, enhance environmental protection, promote and preserve native wildlife habitats and native flora throughout the state, mitigate erosion while providing adequate drainage, promote coordination and efficiency in maintenance activities.

Storm water management includes non-structural and structural measures such as erosion control to minimize erosion and sediment transport and storm water detention and retention systems to reduce peak runoff rates and improve water quality. Measures intended to mitigate storm water quantity and quality problems are termed best management practices (BMPs).

Any use of TxDOT right-of-way needs to be controlled and monitored by the Maintenance Division to ensure the safety of highway users. Mailboxes, non-departmental signs, multiple use agreements, stock passes and cattle guards, and access driveways should be controlled by the maintenance manager.